The breakfast super drink with raw cocoa

Often I choose to replace my morning coffee with a refreshing cocoa drink. It is a delicious option that gives me energy and good mood all day long. I always use raw cocoa, which has multiple benefits for the body. It has a powdery texture and is the product of the pulverization of unprocessed cocoa beans. Thus, it retains all the natural oils and benefits of the bean, while leaving a sweet, rich taste in the mouth.

Gives more energy than coffee

Cocoa contains a minimal amount of caffeine, but unlike coffee, it is rich in theobromine, a stimulating substance that gives more energy than coffee. Also, it has a more neutral pH as opposed to coffee which has higher acidity levels and is heavier for the stomach.

In addition, cocoa is rich in flavonoids, substances that have been shown to lower blood pressure, help improve the functioning of the cardiovascular system and reduce the risk of diabetes. It also has a beneficial effect on bowel function, as it increases the good bacteria of the intestinal flora, while offering both anti-inflammatory and antidepressant action!

Cocoa tastes better

Cocoa has a better taste, as it is reminiscent of melted dark chocolate. It leaves a sweeter aftertaste, even without the addition of sweeteners, unlike the characteristic bitter taste of coffee. I love the fact that I can combine it with milk or fruit to enhance its flavour and create a nutritious drink that will give me energy all day. I always go the extra mile for breakfast as it is the most important meal of the day. In addition, cocoa enhances mental performance, giving me one more reason to have it at the beginning of the day.

Ingredients

• ¾ glass of water or almond milk
• 1.5-2 teaspoons raw cocoa
• a few strawberries or a banana
• a small quantity of agave syrup or honey
• 4-5 ice cubes

Directions

Add all the ingredients to the food processor and process for a few minutes until they are well mixed. Serve the beverage in a tall glass and it is ready!

Tips

• You can also have the super cocoa beverage in winter with lukewarm water. Avoid using boiling water, because it will destroy its nutrients.
• Go for almond milk instead of cow's or goat's milk, so as not to make the drink heavier and harder to digest, thus reducing energy levels.
• Also, you can add different fruits. In addition to strawberries and bananas, cherries are a good idea for this beverage. If they are not in season, you can buy them frozen.
• Go for natural sweeteners, such as agave syrup or honey, which do not cause a rapid increase of blood sugar levels. You can also add cinnamon. It does give it a spicy edge!
• Avoid consuming the super cocoa beverage after 6 p.m., as its stimulants can disrupt your night's sleep.

You can watch the preparation of the recipe for my favourite cocoa super drink,  on my GoodLife by Gina YouTube channel! In the same video you will find the recipe for my favourite quaker pie that I usually eat for breakfast!